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How to Stay Healthier with CFTips on Preventing Flare-Ups with Cystic FibrosisMost individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) can lead active productive lives. People with cystic fibrosis can stay healthier by following these tips.
Many individuals with CF can help prevent flare-ups by following recommendations by an accredited cystic fibrosis care center. Here are the most common tips recommended by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. DietA high-calorie, high-fat diet is recommended for individuals with CF. People with cystic fibrosis require extra calories and fat to compensate for the inability to properly absorb nutrients. Thick mucus blocks small tubes in the pancreas of people with CF; the blocked tubes prevent pancreatic enzymes from reaching the intestines. The enzymes are responsible for food digestion and nutritional absorption. Without adequate nutrition, the body is not absorbing the proper amount of proteins, fats, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K. Pancreatic EnzymesIndividuals with CF need to take pancreatic enzymes with all meals and snacks. Pancreatic enzymes help digest food so it can be absorbed by the body. Individuals who do not take pancreatic enzymes with meals may become malnourished. People with CF who are malnourished are at a higher risk for developing lung infections. VitaminsPeople with CF have difficulty absorbing certain vitamins from their food. These vitamins are Vitamins A, D, E, and K. People with CF should take these vitamins daily. In addition to these vitamins, minerals such as calcium, iron, sodium chloride and zinc should be taken. Avoid the Spread of GermsProper hand-washing techniques can help decrease the risk of spreading germs. Hands are the most common way germs are spread. Even with this information, only about 68% of individuals wash their hands. In addition to washing their hands often, people with CF should avoid contact with people who have a cold or any other contagious conditions. Avoid Cigarette SmokePeople with CF should avoid smoking and second-hand smoke. Smoking can damage lung health. Researchers found that lung function in individuals exposed to second-hand cigarette smoke was decreased by 10% compared to those not exposed. Watch for DiabetesMany individuals with CF develop diabetes. Insulin is produced in the pancreas. With CF, scarring often occurs in the pancreas. The scarring can prevent insulin from moving to the bloodstream. This disruption in insulin can lead to diabetes. Individuals with CF should keep an eye on their sugar. Early diabetes intervention can help manage the diabetes. ExerciseExercise has many benefits for people with CF. Regular exercise increases strength, endurance and helps keep our heart strong and healthy. It is no different for people living with CF; the better their endurance, the easier their bodies will react to normal activity. Exercise also helps to loosen the thick mucus in the lungs. The vibration and movement of exercise helps the thickened secretions to loosen in the airways, making it easier to breathe and perform normal activities. Find Health-Care That Specializes in Cystic FibrosisIt’s important to find specialized health-care at a cystic fibrosis accredited care center. It’s also important for people with CF to follow the medication, airway clearance and diet recommendations made by the physician at the cystic fibrosis care center. Following an appropriate cystic fibrosis treatment plan can help keep people with CF healthy.
The copyright of the article How to Stay Healthier with CF in Chronic Illness is owned by Melinda Thompson. Permission to republish How to Stay Healthier with CF in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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